By Marie Andrewartha
Hi we’re the ‘Fati-mas’ a woman’s group from Our Lady of Fatima church Tawa! In 2001 we discovered the Magnificat Community Retreat Centre. It’s an oasis, in the midst of our busyness and every year we return to this beautiful haven to soak in its peace and tranquillity. As busy Mums, the opportunities to recharge our batteries and to draw closer to God, are few and far between. Our weekend away is very precious to us. Whether it’s a formal retreat or just a weekend away from it all, God’s presence abides there and envelops us.
The chapel, with the Blessed Sacrament, the river meandering through the property, the beautiful gardens and the friendly animals, make this an awesome place. The community members are so caring and have become honorary members of our group!! Sometimes one of our own priests will come and say Mass for us or we offer our singing talents to the local Martinborough church!
Nazareth house where we stay is a sprawling farm house with ample room for us. May God’s blessing and Grace continue to fall on this community who through their faith in God have been able to do far more than they have ever dreamed possible.